Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Acton Academy unique?

• Focus on discovering a calling
• Entrepreneurial journey
• 21st century learning
• Multi-age classes
• Self-paced, mastery-based learning
• Entrepreneurial projects and quests
• Real-world apprenticeships
• Blended learning
• Learner driven
• Deep respect for the child
• Learner self-governance
• No homework
• Guides rather than teachers
• Socratic discussions rather than lectures
• Portfolios rather than grades
• Micro-school format

Is Acton a Montessori school?

Acton Elementary, for grades 1 to 6, incorporates many Montessori materials and principles including:

• Mixed-age classes,
• Freedom within limits,
• Large blocks of uninterrupted work time,
• Learning through “discovery,” and
• Freedom of movement

We combined these principals with the best 21st century learning tools, the Socratic method, which emphasizes asking and answering questions to cultivate critical thinking, and real-world projects.

What is a typical day at Acton Elementary?

We launch each day with a Socratic discussion to highlight the focus of the day and build energy, bring up a community need, or just inspire and encourage learners. The morning launch is followed by independent and small-group work on core skills (reading, writing, and math) using state-of-the-art learning software and hands-on materials. The learners then engage in art or movement. After lunch and free time, the elementary children gather again for a Socratic discussion to reflect on and prepare for their afternoon work on civilization or quests.

What do you mean by “entrepreneurial journey”?

Acton has found the “entrepreneurial journey” to be a powerful metaphor for children to think about their educational adventure. It is a lifelong orientation toward themselves and the world, a way of discovering their unique gifts, talents, and passions and then developing the habits of mind, character, and behavior that allow them to chase down their dreams with energy and joy. Who am I and where am I going? What makes me special? What gifts do I have? How can I use these gifts to do something great, even change the world? Every journey has twists and turns and requires hard work, even heroic effort, to overcome challenges along the way. Our mission is to help your child discover his or her own unique path. The entrepreneurial journey begins with Acton Montessori, as children as young as 3 years old are encouraged to follow their interests, ask questions, and discover what excites them.

Does every Acton child have to be an entrepreneur?

Acton learners aim to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset. This mindset is not about starting a business per se. Rather, it’s about looking for opportunities in the world, taking risks, learning from mistakes, thinking creatively, working hard, and finding joy.

What does it mean for children to be in charge of their own learning?

At Acton, we cultivate self-directed learners. A self-directed learner is guided by his or her interests and is able to set and achieve learning goals, research questions, solve problems, participate in discussions, and strive for mastery.

How will my child stay on task in a self-directed environment?

A learner’s ability to set and track goals in order to evaluate progress is essential to success in a learner-driven, individualized learning program. Learners need a lot of practice setting specific, measurable goals that are challenging but realistic.

In Acton Elementary, learners set weekly and daily goals, track progress, and establish a rhythm of meeting with peers to hold each other accountable.

How does Acton track progress without grades?

Acton Elementary tracks learner progress through Journey Tracker, software that allows parents to see the work their children have done. Acton Elementary also uses learner portfolios, leaxzrning exhibitions, peer reviews, goal monitoring, and a once-a-year standardized test.

How do Acton Elementary learners compare on standardized tests?

While we dislike standardized tests, all learners take the Iowa Tests once each year to benchmark their progress in terms comparable to other schools. Learners who have been at Acton Academy in Austin through elementary school (and are now in middle school there) are on average 3.6 grades above age in reading, and 4.6 grade levels above age in math.

What is the Socratic method and why does Acton use it?

In the Socratic method, a guide sets up scenarios and asks questions to stimulate critical thinking and independent learning. Acton uses the Socratic method rather than lectures because through discussions and actively making arguments to support their beliefs, learners hone their critical thinking and speaking abilities and gain a better understanding of a topic than by passively taking notes during a lecture. Outside of discussions, guides employ the Socratic method with learners throughout the day in order to build and reinforce independent learners who are able to answer their own questions.

How much homework will there be?

We believe that children need time to play, relax, and be with family and friends. There will not be any homework assigned.

Does Acton serve special needs children?

We are not trained or staffed to serve children who need specialized attention because of serious learning or behavioral challenges. We treat each and every situation individually, so if you are interested in Acton and believe it is a great fit for your family, please inquire and we will personally assess your unique situation and the fit of your young learner.

What ages does Acton serve?

Acton Elementary is a mixed-age class of children in grades 1-6. As the learners age up, Acton Elementary will be followed by the creation of Acton Middle and High School.

Is Acton accredited?

Yes. We are accredited by the International Association of Learner-Driven Schools.

Is Acton a franchise?

Acton Academy is an independent affiliate of the Acton Academy network of schools. Acton affiliates share a mission, set of beliefs, and promises to families. Individual affiliates adapt Acton’s model for the unique communities they serve. The Acton network supports affiliates with curriculum materials, learning tools, custom software, best practices, and more. Each year, Acton affiliates from around the world gather in Austin, Texas, to share knowledge, collaborate, and help the network grow.

What other resources will help me understand Acton and Montessori?

We recommend Courage to Grow: How Acton Academy Turns Learning Upside Down and Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius. For more of our favorites, visit our readings page.